The decision by the Australian government to institute filtering of the Internet at the ISP level to protect children from pornography and violent websites is being received with anger and comparisons to the Great Firewall of China. Of course, these critics are ignoring reality.

For starters, anyone can opt out of the filtering, which is simliar to what numerous European countries have mandated for years. Moreover, many ISPS already screen content. Why is this kicking up a fuss? Because of three predictable truths: Governments love to play nanny, Web-filtering software makers love to ring up sales, and bloggers love to bloviate about "freedom." (Photo by Saad)

Contact information for this author is not available.